Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe

Introduction

This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer is a simple yet delightful bite perfect for any gathering. Crisp phyllo shells filled with creamy cheese and a sweet-spicy pepper jelly make for an irresistible combo that guests will love.

Ingredients

• 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Step 2: Arrange the mini phyllo shells on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Step 3: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each phyllo shell.
4. Step 4: Top each cream cheese-filled shell with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly.
5. Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion, if desired.
7. Step 7: Serve warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

• For a dairy-free option, use a cream cheese alternative made from nuts or soy.
• Try substituting red pepper jelly with fig or apricot preserves for a different sweet note.
• Adding a small slice of jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper can boost the heat if you like it spicier.
• Garnish with finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or parsley for added freshness.

Storage

Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-5 minutes to keep the shells crisp, or serve cold if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these bites ahead of time?

You can assemble the shells with cream cheese and jelly and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before baking. For the best texture, bake them shortly before serving.

What can I use instead of mini phyllo shells?

If mini phyllo shells are unavailable, you can use small pastry cups, wonton wrappers shaped into cups, or sturdy crackers as alternatives.

Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer Dip and Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 108 reviews

This Quick Pepper Jelly Cream Cheese Appetizer features crispy mini phyllo shells filled with smooth, softened cream cheese and topped with sweet and spicy red pepper jelly. Garnished with fresh thyme or green onion, these bite-sized treats are perfect for serving warm or at room temperature as an elegant and easy crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

• Author: Emma
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 12 minutes
• Yield: 15 appetizer bites 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Appetizer Bites Ingredients

• 1 box (15-count) mini phyllo shells
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup red pepper jelly
• Fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for crisping the phyllo shells evenly.
2. Arrange phyllo shells: Place the mini phyllo shells evenly spaced on a baking sheet to prepare for filling and baking.
3. Fill with cream cheese: Spoon about 1 teaspoon of softened cream cheese into each phyllo shell, spreading gently to fill the base without overflowing.
4. Add pepper jelly topping: Carefully top each filled shell with approximately 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper jelly, balancing sweetness and spice.
5. Bake until crisp and warm: Bake the filled shells in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes or until the shells are crisp and the cream cheese is warmed through, ensuring a delightful texture contrast.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with fresh thyme leaves or chopped green onion for a fresh herbal note. Serve these appetizers warm or at room temperature for best flavor.

Notes

• For a milder version, use less red pepper jelly or substitute with a mild pepper jelly.
• These bites can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• Phyllo shells should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain crispness.
• Optionally garnish with finely chopped chives or parsley if thyme or green onion are unavailable.
• These appetizers pair beautifully with a crisp white wine or sparkling beverage.

Keywords: pepper jelly, cream cheese, appetizer, phyllo shells, party bites, easy appetizer, finger food